The Toyota Highlander has been a staple in the mid-size SUV market for decades, known for its reliability, spacious interior, and robust performance. As we delve into the specifics of the 2018 model year, it’s essential to examine whether this year stands out as a particularly good one for potential buyers. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of the 2018 Toyota Highlander, including its design, engine options, safety features, and overall performance, to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to the 2018 Toyota Highlander
The 2018 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that seats up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. It is available in several trim levels, including the base LE, mid-level XLE, and top-of-the-line Limited. Each trim offers a unique set of features, allowing buyers to choose the model that best suits their needs. The 2018 Highlander also comes with a variety of engine options, including a 2.7-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid powertrain.
Design and Interior Space
The 2018 Toyota Highlander boasts a sleek and modern exterior design, with a bold front grille, angular lines, and a distinctive rear spoiler. The interior is equally impressive, with plenty of cargo space and seating for up to eight passengers. The second-row seats fold flat, providing ample room for luggage, groceries, or other gear. The third-row seats, while not as spacious as the first two rows, are still comfortable and suitable for smaller passengers.
Infotainment and Technology Features
The 2018 Toyota Highlander comes equipped with a range of innovative infotainment and technology features. The base LE trim includes a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, while higher trims feature an 8-inch display with navigation and Toyota’s Entune App Suite. Other notable features include a backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium JBL sound system. The Highlander also offers a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing passengers to stay connected on the go.
Engine Options and Performance
The 2018 Toyota Highlander offers three engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid powertrain. The 2.7-liter engine produces 185 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5-liter V6 generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid model combines a 3.5-liter V6 with an electric motor, producing a total system output of 306 horsepower.
Fuel Economy and Towing Capacity
The 2018 Toyota Highlander’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. The front-wheel-drive LE trim with the 2.7-liter engine achieves an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive Limited trim with the 3.5-liter V6 engine earns an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The hybrid model is the most fuel-efficient, with an estimated 30 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Highlander’s towing capacity ranges from 1,500 to 5,000 pounds, depending on the engine and drivetrain.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 2018 Toyota Highlander is a safe and reliable vehicle, with a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Highlander comes standard with a range of safety features, including electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a suite of airbags. Higher trims add features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Comparison to Other Model Years
When considering whether 2018 is a good year for the Toyota Highlander, it’s essential to compare it to other model years. The 2017 Highlander received a mid-cycle refresh, which included updated exterior styling, new interior trim options, and additional standard features. The 2019 Highlander built upon the 2018 model, with minor updates to the exterior and interior design, as well as new standard safety features. However, the 2018 model remains a solid choice for buyers, offering a perfect balance of features, performance, and affordability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2018 Toyota Highlander is indeed a good year for this iconic SUV. With its sleek design, spacious interior, and range of engine options, the Highlander is an excellent choice for families, road trippers, and anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable mid-size SUV. While other model years may offer minor updates or changes, the 2018 Highlander remains a compelling option for buyers. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, towing capacity, or safety features, the 2018 Toyota Highlander is sure to meet your needs.
Final Thoughts
As you weigh your options and consider whether the 2018 Toyota Highlander is the right vehicle for you, remember to research and compare different trim levels, test drive the vehicle, and review the warranty and maintenance costs. By doing your due diligence, you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision and driving away in a reliable and capable SUV. With its proven track record and enduring popularity, the 2018 Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a mid-size SUV that can handle it all.
In terms of the Highlander’s popularity, here is a list of its sales figures for 2018:
- Over 244,000 units sold in the United States
- A 10% increase in sales compared to the previous year
The 2018 Toyota Highlander’s specifications are as follows:
| Trim Level | Engine | Horsepower | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| LE | 2.7-liter four-cylinder | 185 | 1,500 pounds |
| XLE | 3.5-liter V6 | 295 | 5,000 pounds |
| Limited | 3.5-liter V6 | 295 | 5,000 pounds |
What are the key features of the 2018 Toyota Highlander?
The 2018 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that offers a range of features, including a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It also comes with a suite of safety features, including Toyota’s Safety Sense P (TSS-P) suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with seating for up to eight passengers and a generous cargo area.
In terms of technology, the 2018 Highlander comes with a range of options, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a JBL premium audio system. It also offers a range of convenience features, such as a power liftgate, a moonroof, and a 360-degree camera system. With its impressive list of features, the 2018 Highlander is a great choice for families, road trippers, and anyone looking for a reliable and versatile SUV. Whether you’re hauling passengers, cargo, or a combination of both, the Highlander is well-equipped to handle the task.
How does the 2018 Toyota Highlander perform in terms of fuel economy?
The 2018 Toyota Highlander offers decent fuel economy, with an estimated EPA rating of up to 24 mpg combined (21 city, 27 highway) for the front-wheel drive model. The all-wheel drive model gets an estimated 23 mpg combined (20 city, 26 highway). While these numbers may not be the best in its class, the Highlander’s fuel economy is still respectable, especially considering its size and capabilities. Additionally, the Highlander’s fuel tank has a capacity of 19.2 gallons, which allows for a range of up to 500 miles on a single fill-up.
It’s worth noting that the Highlander’s fuel economy can be affected by a number of factors, including driving habits, road conditions, and weather. However, with its efficient engine and transmission, the Highlander is able to achieve good fuel economy without sacrificing performance. In fact, the Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 295 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful SUVs in its class. With its balance of power and efficiency, the Highlander is a great choice for anyone looking for a capable and reliable SUV.
Is the 2018 Toyota Highlander safe to drive?
The 2018 Toyota Highlander is considered to be a safe vehicle, with a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which is the highest rating awarded by the organization. The Highlander’s safety features include a range of airbags, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. It also offers a number of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
In addition to its impressive safety ratings and features, the Highlander also has a reputation for being a reliable and durable vehicle. Toyota is known for its commitment to quality and safety, and the Highlander is no exception. With its strong body structure, advanced safety features, and reliable engine, the Highlander is a great choice for anyone looking for a safe and trustworthy SUV. Whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway, the Highlander provides a sense of security and peace of mind that is hard to find in other vehicles.
What are the trim levels of the 2018 Toyota Highlander?
The 2018 Toyota Highlander is available in a range of trim levels, including the LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited, and Limited Platinum. Each trim level offers a unique set of features and options, allowing buyers to choose the model that best fits their needs and budget. The base LE model comes with a range of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The higher trim levels add features such as a power moonroof, a 360-degree camera system, and a premium audio system.
The top-of-the-line Limited Platinum model offers a range of luxury features, including a panoramic moonroof, a heated steering wheel, and a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system. It also comes with a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. With its range of trim levels, the Highlander offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly base model or a luxurious top-of-the-line trim.
How does the 2018 Toyota Highlander compare to its competitors?
The 2018 Toyota Highlander competes in the mid-size SUV segment, which is one of the most crowded and competitive markets in the automotive industry. Some of its main competitors include the Honda Pilot, the Ford Explorer, and the Nissan Pathfinder. The Highlander stands out from its competitors with its impressive list of features, its powerful and efficient engine, and its reputation for reliability and durability. It also offers a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, which are not available on all of its competitors.
In terms of pricing, the Highlander is competitive with its main competitors, with a starting price of around $32,000 for the base LE model. However, as you move up the trim levels, the price can increase significantly, with the top-of-the-line Limited Platinum model starting at over $45,000. Despite its higher price point, the Highlander offers a range of features and options that are not available on its competitors, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a capable and luxurious SUV. With its balance of power, efficiency, and features, the Highlander is a top choice in the mid-size SUV segment.
What are the common problems with the 2018 Toyota Highlander?
Like any vehicle, the 2018 Toyota Highlander is not without its common problems. Some of the most common issues reported by owners include problems with the transmission, issues with the infotainment system, and complaints about the brakes. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the Highlander’s engine, including problems with the oil consumption and the engine’s performance. However, it’s worth noting that these problems are relatively rare, and the Highlander has a reputation for being a reliable and durable vehicle.
Despite these common problems, the Highlander has a reputation for being a low-maintenance vehicle, with many owners reporting that it requires few repairs and has low maintenance costs. Additionally, Toyota is known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, and the company has issued a number of recalls and technical service bulletins to address some of the common issues with the Highlander. With proper maintenance and care, the Highlander can provide years of reliable service, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable SUV. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, can help to prevent many of the common problems associated with the Highlander.